The Naming Project: Shadrach
Shadrach, born January 7, 1767, was enslaved by James Madison Sr. and was the overseer of a tract called “Shadracks.” He was inherited by Madison Sr.’s son-in-law Isaac Hite.
Digging Deeper
Behind the Scenes at James Madison's Montpelier
The Naming Project: Catharine (Caty) Taylor
Catharine “Caty” Taylor was often separated from her husband Ralph when Dolley Madison lived in Washington. After Dolley’s son died, Caty sued for her family’s freedom.
The Naming Project: Sally
Born December 10, 1763, Sally was 19 years old when James Madison Sr. gave her to his new son-in-law, Isaac Hite. In his commonplace book, Hite wrote next to Sally’s name: “sold.”
The Naming Project: Gideon
Gideon was one of several enslaved people given by James Madison Sr. to his son Francis in January 1773. Gideon worked on Francis’s property in Culpeper County in 1783.
The Naming Project: Harriet
Harriet was a skilled weaver, whom Dolley Madison deeded to her son in 1844. He tried to sell Harriet to several buyers, finally selling her for $275 on December 24, 1845.
The Naming Project: Joseph
Joseph’s name appears only once in the documentary record, when James Madison wrote that Joseph’s health had not worsened, but a second tumor had appeared.
The Naming Project: Betty
Betty, sometimes called “Big” or “Old” Betty, was enslaved by James Madison Sr. and possibly by his father Ambrose. She married Anthony and was the mother of Billey Gardner.
The Naming Project: Solomon Taliaferro
Enslaved by Nelly Madison, Solomon Taliaferro was freed by her grandson in 1853. He married twice, had at least one grandchild, and was a member of the United Brethren Church.